The Detroit Free Press is reporting that Jeep CEO Mike Manley (still the best name ever) said the Jeep may offer a diesel engine in the U.S. market sometime in the next three years.

"Diesel in some of our models makes absolute sense," Manley said Thursday in Auburn Hills, where Jeep showcased seven specialized SUVs and pickups that it will show this month at an annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. In Europe, more than 80% of Jeeps purchased have diesel engines.

"Everywhere else in the world, Jeeps come with diesel engines," said Aaron Bragman, an analyst with IHS Automotive.

A diesel engine would add desirable power at lower speeds for off-road driving and improve overall fuel economy, Bragman said.

The biggest barrier is the additional $1,000 to $3,000 a diesel engine costs. Diesels also require such technologies as fuel-injection systems and turbochargers to meet emission standards.

Call me pessimistic, but isn't it obvious that it's the WK and the KK replacement that will get the diesel? If we can convince VM to sell diesels to Jeep with a free sticker package, maybe we can get Manley on board to put one in a JK.